How the Internet eases the job search
By Alana Edmunds
Posted: 12/4/07, 1:11 AM EST Section: News
As the fall semester ends, Syracuse University seniors are weighing possible post-graduation plans. Options are endless - anything from full-time employment, graduate school or even a year off.
Since time isn't so open-ended, some knowledge in networking typically goes a long way.
Debi Walker, assistant director at Center for Career Services, stresses the importance of taking advantage of the tech-savvy resources SU has to offer.
Walker explained new developments to Orangelink, SU's online recruiting software, including switching to a new vendor and a partnership with CareerBuilder.com and how it will be easier for students to use this online tool.
If they don't use additional resources, students "might be missing out on something really great," she said.
"Networking is the still the best way to find employment opportunities," said Tim Kalucki, Information Technology and Services vice president. The firm specializes in consulting and direct staffing with offices throughout the Midwest. He warns students that they need to differentiate themselves in today's job market.
"If you're not competitive and out there, you will get passed over," he said. "It may not be your dream job, but look for a well-respected company. (Recent graduates) need experience and prove that they know how to work in a professional environment."
Another way to network online is through blogs, which can provide a new perspective to job hunters. Blogs connect to one another by linking to thoughts of other bloggers, instantly creating a knowledge network accessible no matter where the user is located.
The business networking site LinkedIn can be used for online networking by anyone, and joining is free. The site is made up of more than 16 million people representing 150 industries. The Web site boasts that "more people have joined LinkedIn than live in Sweden."
But it's no Facebook. The New York Times' blog Bits quoted LinkedIn Chief Executive Dan Nye explaining that the site is a "productivity tool to make professional people more effective," unlike other sites, where "there is a lot of noise and interference."
Since time isn't so open-ended, some knowledge in networking typically goes a long way.
Debi Walker, assistant director at Center for Career Services, stresses the importance of taking advantage of the tech-savvy resources SU has to offer.
Walker explained new developments to Orangelink, SU's online recruiting software, including switching to a new vendor and a partnership with CareerBuilder.com and how it will be easier for students to use this online tool.
If they don't use additional resources, students "might be missing out on something really great," she said.
"Networking is the still the best way to find employment opportunities," said Tim Kalucki, Information Technology and Services vice president. The firm specializes in consulting and direct staffing with offices throughout the Midwest. He warns students that they need to differentiate themselves in today's job market.
"If you're not competitive and out there, you will get passed over," he said. "It may not be your dream job, but look for a well-respected company. (Recent graduates) need experience and prove that they know how to work in a professional environment."
Another way to network online is through blogs, which can provide a new perspective to job hunters. Blogs connect to one another by linking to thoughts of other bloggers, instantly creating a knowledge network accessible no matter where the user is located.
The business networking site LinkedIn can be used for online networking by anyone, and joining is free. The site is made up of more than 16 million people representing 150 industries. The Web site boasts that "more people have joined LinkedIn than live in Sweden."
But it's no Facebook. The New York Times' blog Bits quoted LinkedIn Chief Executive Dan Nye explaining that the site is a "productivity tool to make professional people more effective," unlike other sites, where "there is a lot of noise and interference."
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